The 48-year-old retired defender lifted the trophy with Brazil in 2002 and recalled how “focused” the squad was throughout the competition, with the senior players’ “focus and determination” motivating the newcomers to the team.

He told FourFourTwo magazine: “The final is the most vivid memory [of the tournament] of course.

“Becoming world champion for your country is an incomparable feeling.

“The beginning of our journey was also significant.

“There was so much pressure on us because Brazil had lost the final in 1998, which increased expectations.

“Veteran players like Roberto Carlos, Cafu, Rivaldo and Ronaldo were vital for us. They had been in the 98 final defeat to France and were determined to win this time.

“Their focus and determination motivated us younger players.

“I learned loads from them.

“Every training session was intense. That group was focused and it was clear from the start we had one goal, winning the World Cup.”

Roque is one of five players – along with Dida, Cafu, Ronaldinho and Julian Alvarez – to have won the World Cup, Champions League and Copa Libertadores, and while each victory was “special” it was the international victory that means the most to him.

He said: “Each was special in its own way but if I had to pick one, it would be the World Cup.

“Winning the World Cup is a dream for every Brazilian player. Representing your country on the biggest stage and coming out on top is incomparable.

“But that doesn’t take away from the other titles’ importance.

“The Libertadores with Palmeiras marked the beginning of my journey. Winning the Champions League with Milan was crucial for my European success – it proved I could compete at the highest level in club football.

“For importance though, the World Cup is every footballer’s ultimate goal and the crowning achievement of my career.”